2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class
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2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK ▼
- Price Range: $14,100 - $69,400
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V8 models)
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Rear-seat room
- Control layout (navigation system)
- Rear-seat entry/exit
Vehicle Highlights
Mercedes-Benz redesigned its midsize luxury coupe for 2003, with new two-door styling that eliminated the middle roof posts. Based on Mercedes' latest C-Class sedan, the CLK coupe again came in V6 and V8 form. The CLK320 model reprised a 3.2-liter V6, while the new CLK500 held a 5.0-liter V8, replacing the 4.3-liter V8 of the prior generation. CLK convertibles continued into another season in 320 and 430 form, using the 1998-vintage design. All models included a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift feature, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, antiskid/traction-control system, front side airbags, and Mercedes' TeleAid assistance system. Coupes got standard rear side airbags and full-length curtain side airbags. Styling details differed between the two coupe models, but they shared the new hardtop design, which was slightly longer, wider, and taller than the car it replaced. The new models weighed about 250 pounds more, but interior dimensions changed little. Tires were wider at the rear than the front. The CLK320 rode on 16-inch wheels, with 17s available in an Appearance Package that also included aluminum interior trim. The CLK500 had standard 17s and offered aluminum cabin accents in an available two-tone leather package. Optional for all CLKs was Mercedes' COMAND video-screen control for audio and available navigation and phone functions. Also newly available for CLK coupes were rear-obstacle detection, a power rear sunshade, and radar-based cruise control to automatically maintain a preset following distance. Another first-time coupe option was Mercedes' Keyless Go system, which used a credit-card-sized transmitter that allowed unlocking and starting the vehicle simply by touch. CLK competitors included the Acura CL, Audi A4 Cabriolet, BMW 3-Series coupe and convertible, and Infiniti G35 coupe.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | CLK500 coupe Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Year to Year Changes
2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK:
By the time the 2004 model year began, CLK cabriolets (convertibles) had adopted the styling that began with the redesigned true-hardtop coupes. Convertibles had a fully automatic power fabric top and a heated glass rear window. Roll bars in the rear headrests were designed to pop up if sensors detected an impending rollover. Both body styles came in three trim levels. CLK320s had a V6 engine, CLK500s held a 302-horsepower V8, and CLK55 models, developed by Mercedes' AMG performance arm, used a 362-horsepower V8. All models used a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift feature. The CLK55 added manual-shift steering-wheel buttons. Antilock braking, antiskid/traction control, and front and rear side airbags were standard. The convertible's front side airbag covered the occupant's head and torso. Coupes also had head-protecting curtain side airbags. All V8 models had 17-inch wheels, which were optional on CLK320s, in place of 16s. CLK55 models had a sport suspension. CLK500 convertibles had exclusive AMG-designed trim. Mercedes' TeleAid assistance was standard. Rear-obstacle detection and Distronic cruise control were optional. For 2004, CLKs were factory-prewired to accept a newly optional dealer-installed satellite radio.
2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK:
A seven-speed automatic transmission replaced the five-speed in the CLK500 series. For 2005, the CLK55 adopted 18-inch wheels. All models were mildly facelifted and gained a new center console.
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK:
2006 brought no changes for the CLK.
2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK:
New V8 engines trigger model-name changes for these four-passenger coupes and convertibles. Three 2007 models are offered. The CLK350 returns with a 268-hp V6. The CLK550 has a 382-hp V8 and replaces the 302-hp CLK500. The high-performance CLK63 has a 475-hp V8 and replaces the 362-hp CLK55.
2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK:
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series made its debut as an ultra-high-performance addition to this premium sporty car's roster. It used the 6.2-liter V8 tuned to 500 horsepower.
Our road test for the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Among coupes, CLK320s satisfy in most situations. A test CLK320 coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds--swift enough for most. V8 models are quicker: 5.6 seconds for a test CLK500. The CLK55 is a paragon of smooth, ready muscle, able to zoom ahead like a rocket. Convertibles weigh about 250 pounds more than coupes, yet trail only a little in acceleration. Pedal travel is not always commensurate with power delivery. All engines have fairly "soft" throttle response that annoys in low-speed driving and delays midrange passings. Downshifts can be tardy in passing situations with the CLK320/500 models. CLK55 power overcomes any delay, and steering-wheel buttons quicken manual-mode shifts. Fuel economy is about as expected in this league. Test CLK500 coupes have averaged 15.0 mpg in mostly city driving, and 19.4 mpg with more highway miles. A CLK320 coupe managed 20.3 mpg, versus 20.1 mpg for a 320 convertible in city/highway usage. A CLK55 averaged 18.7 mpg in mostly highway driving. All models require premium fuel. All CLKs are composed at high speeds. A base-suspension CLK320 coupe soaks up most rough stuff without much jiggle or tire slap. Coupes with optional 17-inch low-profile tires are only slightly more fidgety over bumps. The CLK55 reacts abruptly to broken pavement on its stiffer-yet sport suspension. Convertibles ride about the same as coupes, and are impressively solid with little cowl shake. Though not sports-car agile, every CLK corners with precision, modest body lean, fine grip and stability. Braking is strong with excellent control, but pedal action has felt spongy in some nearly-new test cars, and touchy in others. Engines sound classy--muted even at full throttle. Rough-surface tire noise is present, especially in the CLK55, but not intrusive. Coupes suffer little wind rush, despite lacking middle roof posts; but one test CLK320 had a low whistle around the driver's door window. Top-up convertibles are nearly as quiet as coupes. Switchgear is typical Mercedes and mostly convenient, but few markings are obvious, and bar-graph fuel and temperature gauges may be too small for some eyes. The difficult-to-use navigation system is a puzzle of teensy buttons. The remote keyfob opens/closes windows and the optional coupe sunroof, which is handy for hot days. Cabin finish generally matches the CLK's premium pricing. Some tested coupes have suffered from creaks and door rattles. CLKs are cozy inside with ample leg space up front, plus decent six-footer head room. Low-set seats are not ideal for long-distance comfort, and may be short on thigh support for some drivers. Coupe visibility is generally good. Top-up convertibles aren't bad either, due to fairly slim rear "pillars." Long, cumbersome doors and a lowish build hamper entry/exit. Two rear occupants get hard but well-shaped cushions and scant head room, as well as little leg space unless front-seaters move well forward. Rear entry/exit demands some stooping and crawling, despite front seats that power ahead when tipping the backrest. Cargo space isn't bad for the coupe's exterior size. The coupe's fold-down seatbacks with in-trunk releases help with packing. Convertibles lack fold-down rear seatbacks and forfeit about 2 cubic feet of space, but the trunk is still useful. Cabins have door and seat pockets for small items, but just one cupholder. The dashboard glovebox and console bin are almost useless if fitted with an optional CD changer and phone, respectively.
Value for the Money
Stylish, solid, and sporty, CLKs aim at folks who value fashion over utility. They make sense for well-heeled buyers whose lifestyle can accommodate a four-seat two-door automobile. Balancing their costly impracticality are a long list of safety features, performance that stretches from outstanding to outrageous, and strong resale values--which keep used-car prices high.
Stylish, solid, and sporty, CLKs aim at folks who value fashion over utility. They make sense for well-heeled buyers whose lifestyle can accommodate a four-seat two-door automobile. Balancing their costly impracticality are a long list of safety features, performance that stretches from outstanding to outrageous, and strong resale values--which keep used-car prices high.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | CLK500 coupe Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 8 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 7 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mercedes-Benz CLK includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercedes-Benz CLK .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Rumbling or squealing noises may come from the A/C compressor due to a bad pulley or bearings for which there are improved components. (2003-06)
Alternator belt:
The alternator may not provide adequate charging due to a faulty internal voltage regulator. (2003-05)
Blower motor:
The blower motor may quit working after a minute or so, then work momentarily and quit again due to internal circuit breaker in blower regulator which must be replaced. (2005-06)
Brake noise:
A whistling or squealing noise may be heard coming from the brake booster when the brakes are released. (2005-07)
Cruise control:
The cruise control may quit working if all four tires are not the same size due to differing tires or lack of rotation. (2004-06)
Horn:
The horn may honk all by itself due to inadequate clearance between the horn contacts and airbag assembly in the steering wheel. (2005)
Power seats:
The power seat may quit working due to failure of failure of the seat control module. (2005-06)
Starter:
Moisture gets into the crankshaft position sensor on the 3.2L V6 engine causing hesitation, rough idle and hard starting requiring that both the sensor and wiring harness be replaced. (2003)
Steering problems:
The steering wheel controls may not work to control the auxiliary iPOD interface. (2005)
Tail/brake lights:
The tail light bulbs keep burning out prematurely and the fix is to install a jumper harness having resistance the drops the voltage by one volt. (2003)
Transmission leak:
Transmission fluid leaks from the electrical connector and may also travel through the wires to the electronic control unit requiring the connector and necessary O-rings be replaced. 2003)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $980 |
| Alternator | $970 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $3,695 |
| Brakes | $650 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $915 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $4,490 |
| Exhaust System | $650 |
| Radiator | $1,310 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,520 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $1,805 |
Our price chart for this generation Mercedes-Benz CLK details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2008 | |||
| CLK350 conv. | $45,000-48,000 | $42,300-45,100 | $32,900-35,000 |
| CLK350 coupe | $37,500-40,000 | $34,900-37,200 | $26,600-28,400 |
| CLK550 conv. | $51,000-54,000 | $47,900-50,800 | $38,300-40,500 |
| CLK550 coupe | $42,500-45,000 | $40,000-42,300 | $31,000-32,900 |
| CLK63 conv. | $69,000-73,000 | $65,600-69,400 | $52,400-55,500 |
| CLK63 coupe | $54,000-57,000 | $50,800-53,600 | $40,500-42,800 |
| 2007 | |||
| CLK350 conv. | $38,500-40,500 | $35,800-37,700 | $27,300-28,800 |
| CLK350 coupe | $31,500-33,500 | $29,300-31,200 | $22,100-23,500 |
| CLK550 conv. | $43,000-45,500 | $40,400-42,800 | $31,400-33,200 |
| CLK550 coupe | $36,000-38,000 | $33,500-35,300 | $25,600-27,000 |
| CLK63 conv. | $58,000-61,000 | $55,100-58,000 | $43,500-45,800 |
| 2006 | |||
| CLK350 conv. | $32,500-34,500 | $30,200-32,100 | $22,800-24,200 |
| CLK350 coupe | $26,500-28,500 | $24,600-26,500 | $17,500-18,800 |
| CLK500 conv. | $35,500-37,500 | $33,000-34,900 | $25,200-26,600 |
| CLK500 coupe | $30,000-31,800 | $27,900-29,600 | $21,000-22,300 |
| CLK55 conv. | $43,000-45,500 | $40,400-42,800 | $31,400-33,200 |
| 2005 | |||
| CLK320 conv. | $27,000-28,700 | $25,100-26,700 | $18,100-19,200 |
| CLK320 coupe | $22,000-23,500 | $20,200-21,600 | $14,300-15,300 |
| CLK500 conv. | $29,000-31,000 | $27,000-28,800 | $20,000-21,400 |
| CLK500 coupe | $24,300-26,000 | $22,600-24,200 | $15,800-16,900 |
| CLK55 conv. | $36,500-38,700 | $33,900-36,000 | $25,900-27,500 |
| CLK55 coupe | $31,500-33,500 | $29,300-31,200 | $22,100-23,500 |
| 2004 | |||
| CLK320 conv. | $22,500-24,000 | $20,700-22,100 | $14,600-15,600 |
| CLK320 coupe | $18,500-20,000 | $17,000-18,400 | $11,800-12,800 |
| CLK500 conv. | $24,500-26,500 | $22,800-24,600 | $15,900-17,200 |
| CLK500 coupe | $20,500-22,000 | $18,900-20,200 | $13,300-14,300 |
| CLK55 conv. | $30,000-32,000 | $27,900-29,800 | $21,000-22,400 |
| CLK55 coupe | $25,500-27,500 | $23,700-25,600 | $16,800-18,200 |
| 2003 | |||
| CLK320 conv. | $17,700-19,000 | $16,300-17,500 | $11,300-12,200 |
| CLK320 coupe | $15,500-17,000 | $14,100-15,500 | $9,900-10,900 |
| CLK500 conv. | $20,000-22,000 | $18,400-20,200 | $13,000-14,300 |
| CLK500 coupe | $17,000-18,500 | $15,600-17,000 | $10,900-11,800 |
| CLK55 coupe | $20,500-22,500 | $18,900-20,700 | $13,300-14,600 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mercedes-Benz CLK include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible (2003) | 2-door coupe |
| Wheelbase, in. | 105.9 | 106.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.2 | 182.6 |
| Overall Width, in. | 67.8 | 68.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.3 | 55.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3650 | 3515 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 9.4 | 10.4 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.4 | 16.4 |
| Seating Capacity | 37.5 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.5 | 37.1 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 27.4 | 42.0 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 41.9 | 35.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | 33.0 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
A 3.2-liter V6 engine that produced 215 horsepower has been installed in CLK320 models, while the CLK500 held a 5.0-liter V8 that delivered 302 horsepower. A 5.4-liter V8 rated at 362 horsepower has gone into CLK55 AMG coupes and convertibles. All CLK models have a five-speed automatic transmission, except for the latest CLK500, which uses a seven-speed unit. For 2007, New V8 engines trigger model-name changes. The CLK350 returns with a 268-hp V6. The CLK550 has a 382-hp V8 and replaces the 302-hp CLK500. The high-performance CLK63 has a 475-hp V8 and replaces the 362-hp CLK55. The new-for-2008 CLK63 AMG Black Series used the 6.2-liter V8 tuned to 500 horsepower.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V8 | 5.5 / 333 | 382 | 391 | 7-speed automatic: 16/23 | 7-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V6 | 3.2 / 195 | 215 | 229 | 5-speed automatic: 19/27 | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V8 | 5.0 / 303 | 302 | 339 | 5-speed automatic: 16/23 7-speed automatic: 17/25 |
5-speed automatic: -- 7-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc V8 | 5.4 / 332 | 362 | 376 | 5-speed automatic: 16/22 | 5-speed automatic: 18.7 |
| ohc V8 | 6.2 / 379 | 475-500 | 465-478 | 7-speed automatic: 13/20 | 7-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Germany
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mercedes-Benz CLK include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2003-2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2003-04:
An incorrect software calibration number (SCN) coding received during a recent workshop visit can affect a number of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings may be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor may not be displayed in the instrument cluster; (3) the check engine light may illuminate incorrectly; and, (4) the speedometer may be out of tolerance. In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump may not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed. Dealers will recode the SCN.
2006-08:
An incorrect software calibration number (SCN) coding received during a recent workshop visit can affect a number of functions: (1) the fuel gauge readings may be incorrect; (2) a stuck fuel-level sensor may not be displayed in the instrument cluster; (3) the check engine light may illuminate incorrectly; and, (4) the speedometer may be out of tolerance. In the event of a vehicle crash, the electrical fuel pump may not receive a crash signal that is required for the fuel pump to disconnect and prevent future fuel delivery as designed. Dealers will recode the SCN.
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